News

Semex Strives for Greater Immunity and Disease Resistance

12 December 2012

CANADA - It is hoped that higher natural levels of disease resistance can be passed on to progeny following a new sire brand from Semex marketed as their new Immunity+ brand.

This development is the results of research led by Dr Bonnie Mallard at the University of Guelph. Semex have said that this marks a significant breakthrough in improving disease resistance in cattle, reducing the use of remedial medication.

This is hailed as a genetic breakthrough by Semex who emphasise the new High Immune Response (HIR) technology. This identifies cows with different levels of immune response to diseases such as mastitis, metritis, ketosis, retained placenta and Johne's disease.

Around 10 per cent of bulls are believed to have genes to be classed as HIR. HIR sires have "a more balanced immune response capable of defending the cow against a more diverse range of pathogens", according to Dr Bonnie Mallard.

Cows and bulls can be tested, although the technology will only be available through the Immunity+ sires and the heritability is reported to be 25 per cent.

"Semex is a technology-driven company and our philosophy is to invest in research and development to improve dairy cow performance and sustainability," says Semex UK managing director Gordon Miller.

"High Immune Response technology is another major breakthrough after sexed semen and genomics. It marks a significant breakthrough in improving disease resistance in cattle which will reduce the use of remedial medication, and will have a significant effect on dairy cow health and well-being."